ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the couple relationship by looking at the interaction between the three main motivational systems of attachment, sexuality, and caregiving. Evaluating the function of dystonic emotions is therefore important in understanding couple functioning. Attachment theory supports various hypotheses on the links between partners' attachment styles and their experience in the couple relationship. Attachment theory refers to the feeling of independence in the couple in different contexts. As is well recognised, a certain level of independence is necessary to establish intimacy in relationships. Individuals with "secure" attachment are able to achieve a good balance between intimacy and independence within their couple relationship, probably owing to their flexibility. The bidirectional link between affect dysregulation and relationship disconnection may result from a dissonance between the partners' different strategies for regulating their emotions. Betrayal is not necessarily the consequence of an extreme relationship disconnection.
